Prevent condensation on windows in winter using common household item

A cleaning expert has provided a simple “hack” for all those who are “sick” of seeing condensation on their windows during the cold winter months. 

Taking to TikTok, Lily – who is known as Cleaning With Lily on social media – revealed she has a method of “three things” she applies to combat the problem. “First things first, open those windows even when it rains,” she began in a video.

Next, Lily says you should apply washing up liquid to a cloth before getting it “buffed into” your windows. “It’ll stop the condensation sticking to your windows,” she explained.

Lily then showcased a pack of non-fragranced hanging dehumidifiers, which are designed to absorb moisture. “You’re going to hang them behind your curtains,” she instructed. “They are very discrete, they can’t be seen and they collect all of that damp water – they’re a complete game-changer.”

Closing, Lily advised that disposable hanging dehumidifiers are available too, but they are “a bit more bulky” and sit on the window still instead. “I prefer these [non-disposable] as I can hang them behind my curtains,” she said.

After Lily’s clip went viral on the social media platform amassing 1.4 million views, she later returned with a follow-up to answer a number of questions she had been asked about her tip.

In response to queries about whether the washing up liquid should be diluted, she said: “No, as you can see I just put it directly onto the cloth and just rub it into the windows.”

She continued: “I am also asked if I wash it off the windows afterwards. The answer is no. The washing up liquid acts as a film on the windows to stop the condensation.”

Praising Lily for her recommendation, one TikTok user replied: “Needed this! Moved house and we’re getting condensation and mould. I have started wiping.”

A second person asked: “Where’s the hanging dehumidifier from?” To which Lily clarified: “Poundstretcher, but you can get them from Home Bargains and B&M.”

While a third questioned: “Mine only lasted a few days, so will need to re-apply. Has this happened to you?” Lily pointed out: “Yes it last a couple of days. But only takes a couple of mins to apply so definitely worth it.”

Your heating can play a big part in how much condensation forms in your home as the warmer the air is, the more moisture it will hold. So if you heat one room to a higher temperature and leave other rooms cold, condensation can be worse in the unheated rooms.

To avoid this, the World Health Organisation guidelines suggest a minimum temperature of 21C in a living room and 18C in bedrooms, and it’s recommended that heating is left on low all day in cold weather to help control condensation.

If you do get a build up of condensation on your windows, make sure to wipe surfaces down to prevent mould forming and spreading and if you notice any black spots, give your window a clean with a mild bleach solution or anti fungal spray.